Keegan backs United for title

Newcastle manager Kevin Keegan has backed Manchester United to clinch the Barclays Premier League title despite seeing Chelsea take the race to the final day.

The Blues powered their way to a 2-0 victory at St James' Park to go level on points with the current leaders, who enjoy a far superior goal difference.

Asked if Avram Grant's side would be worthy champions, Keegan said: "Yes they would, definitely."

He added: "I don't think they will be, but in any other season, apart from this one...

"You usually have one exceptional side - I think this year, you have got two, and one of them has got to lose.

"I think it will be Man United as champions. Cristiano Ronaldo has had such an outstanding season and that, along with the other great players they have just gives them the edge.

"Despite the [state of the JJB] pitch I can't see them going to Wigan and losing. If you asked Avram Grant, he will go more in hope than expectation that they will."

Keegan admitted Chelsea had made their greater quality tell in the end, and bemoaned the gap between the Premier League's haves and have-nots as he sets about the task of trying to close the gap next season.

He said: "It's very, very exciting to finish fifth in the league for Newcastle.

"You would be mad in my position to say we can get into the top four next year."